Analytical Pyrolysis–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry of Synthetic Polymers and Biopolymers

Dear Colleagues,

Analytical pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) is a laboratory procedure in which small amounts of high-molecular organic materials, such as synthetic polymers or biopolymers, undergo thermal treatment and separations. This technology deals with the structural identification and quantitation of pyrolysis products with the ultimate aim of establishing the identity of the original material and its thermal decomposition mechanisms. Pyrolysis temperatures of 550–1400°C are high enough to break molecular bonds in macromolecules, thereby forming smaller, simpler volatile compounds. The pyrolytic process is carried out in a pyrolyzer interfaced with analytical instrumentation, such as gas chromatography (GC), mass spectrometry (MS), and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (GC-FTIR). Via a measurement and identification of pyrolysis products, the molecular composition of the original sample can often be reconstructed. Applications of Py-GC-MS range from research and development of new materials, characterization and competitor product evaluation, medicine, biology and biotechnology, geology, airspace, and environmental analysis (microplastics and nanoplastics) to forensic purposes or conservation and the restoration of cultural heritage. These applications cover the analysis and identification of synthetic polymers/copolymers and biopolymers. Analytical pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry allows the confirmation of a failed product’s source, the identification of contaminants causing failure, competitive analysis, and allows us to overcome problems in product development or quality control. This technique is often used for wood studies due to its ability to provide details of the lignocellulose’s molecular structure.

We are pleased to invite you to contribute to this Special Issue of Separations on the analytical pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry of synthetic polymers/copolymers and biopolymers, which will be focused on the new developments and applications in this hyphenated technique.

In this Special Issue, case reports, original research articles, and reviews are particularly welcome.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Peter Kusch
Guest Editor

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